District of Columbia Car Insurance – Auto Insurance Quotes in DC
The District of Columbia was ranked dead last out of 139 cities in the “Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report” for 2010, and that’s just one of many reports that proclaim the nation’s capital to have the worst traffic and drivers in America. The likelihood of a D.C. driver being involved in an accident is 95% likely relative to the national average; and even then, that driver is expected to be involved in an accident once every 5 years.
This dubious distinction is attributed to extremely heavy traffic congestion and an overly aggressive driving style practiced by many D.C. motorists. With this in mind, DC drivers need to be familiar with the state’s car insurance requirements and regulations.
District of Columbia Car Insurance Requirements
The District of Columbia maintains strict financial responsibility laws. Driving without proof of auto insurance, even if you are from out-of-state is a big risk in the nation’s capitol. It is even riskier for a D.C. resident who lacks the required minimum liability insurance. Drivers who lack proof of insurance will be issued a fine of $30 if stopped by the police. If their coverage lapses for 1 to 30 days, they will pay a $150 lapse fee, plus an additional $7 for each day past the 30-day limit. If the violation continues, it will result in suspension of vehicle registration and tags.
Also, Washington DC practices the Tort system, meaning in an accident, one driver must be found to be at fault for causing the accident, and thus, along with their car insurance company, is responsible for all damages.
Understanding District of Columbia Car Insurance Liabilities & Coverage
This basic liability coverage required by Washington D.C. is referred to as 25/50/10 coverage with 25/50 UM limits. District car insurance law requires minimum bodily injury liability limits up to $25,000 per person and up to $50,000 per accident, including medical expenses, and property damage liability coverage with a minimum limit of $10,000 to cover public and private property repairs and claims.
Additionally D.C. law requires minimum uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage of up to $25,000 per person and up to $50,000 per accident for bodily injury caused by an uninsured or underinsured motorist. MyCarInsuranceRates.com provides drivers with all the information they need to choose the best, cheap car insurance according to their budget.
District of Columbia Insurance Coverage
- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000/$50,000 Limit
- Property Damage Liability: $10,000 Limit
- Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury: $25,000/$50,000 Limit
District of Columbia Car Insurance Laws & Regulations
Any vehicle that will be operated in the District of Columbia must have valid auto insurance. Proof of insurance must be presented before a driver can register or renew a car’s registration and when the coverage is canceled, the tags must be surrendered to the District of Columbia.
Even drivers who are officially residents of another jurisdiction must abide by Washington D.C.’s auto insurance laws. Citations are issued to motorists without proof of insurance, regardless of residency. To conclude, any driver stopped by the police under D.C. law is required to show their driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance.
Average District of Columbia Car Insurance Rates
The national average car insurance premium in 2010 was $1,538. However, for residents in the District of Columbia, it was $2,282. However, rates have come down over the past few years. In 2010 alone, the average car insurance rate was 6% lower than the same policy in 2009. Because of this fact, now might be the best time for DC drivers to save money on their car insurance policies.
District of Columbia Car Insurance Quotes
With cheaper car insurance rates, it is important for drivers to shop for car insurance to get the best available car insurance quotes. MyCarInsuranceRates.com compares competitive rate quotes from the top car insurance companies, such as Nationwide, Allstate, GEICO, Progressive, 21st Century Insurance, Liberty Mutual, State Farm, Farmers Insurance, AAA and AARP, to ensure that drivers get the best affordable coverage. It is also possible to compare auto insurance quotes and different coverage types to see what policy best suits your needs and budget.
